Dear Labby advises employee who hates boss’s gift

For Christmas, my dog received the most hideous little “doggie shirt” from my boss. I’m offended on many levels, but mostly that this person would think that I’m the type to put clothes on my dog. Marbles is a Chow mix, by the way, and a polo would look ridiculous on him. My boss has a requested a photo of Marbles wearing the shirt; I can’t bring myself to put it on him, let alone snap a picture. What are my options?

Signed:

Not Up for Dog In Silly Top

I hear ya, N.U.D.I.S.T. The only clothing I let my pup wear is a bee costume, come Halloween. Anything else would just look embarrassing.

That said, you’re not going to love my advice: If you like your job (and in this economy, who doesn’t?), you’ll put the shirt on Marbles and send the photo to your boss. Yes, he may forward it to the rest of the company, and yes, you may develop a reputation as “that guy” – you know, the one who dresses his dog in obnoxious little outfits – but at least you can respond with an email of your own. Maybe something along the lines of, “Looks like the boss is hoping Marbles will join him for a round of golf…” Just pray that next year he doesn’t send loafers.

In the meantime, console yourself with the notion that once the shirt comes off, you’ve got yourself a designer dust-rag. Happy holidays.